Defenceman Gord Strate spent parts of three seasons with the Detroit Red Wings in the 50s. He was a rugged player in his own end who could move the puck efficiently up to his forwards.

Born in Edmonton, Alberta Strate played junior with the hometown Oil Kings then spent most of his early pro career in the WHL. In 1957 the solid rearguard was named to the WHL Prairie Division second all-star team. In 1957-58 he played 45 games for the Wings but was soon returned to the minors. After three years in the WHL and EPHL Strate retired after a solid season with the Sudbury Wolves.